Ghana has lost 8,900 hectares of its forest reserves to illegal mining, a practice locally known as 'galamsey'. This significant environmental degradation underscores the persistent challenge authorities face in protecting the nation's natural resources.
The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources revealed this alarming figure. The affected area is comparable to 12,500 football fields, highlighting the scale of destruction. As of July 2026, operations against illegal mining resulted in 258 arrests. These efforts also led to the seizure or immobilisation of 234 excavators, 2,728 pumping machines, and 1,724 changfan machines. Additionally, 461 motorbikes and tricycles were impounded.
This extensive loss of forest cover directly impacts Ghana's environmental health and long-term economic sustainability. The country relies on its natural resources, including forests and water bodies, for various sectors. Illegal mining pollutes water sources, degrades land, and contributes to climate change. This issue has been a recurring challenge for successive governments, affecting agricultural productivity and public health. The fight against 'galamsey' is a critical component of Ghana's broader economic stability and environmental stewardship.
Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, confirmed these figures during a policy dialogue. He stated that nine out of Ghana's 288 forest reserves have been severely impacted. Mr. Buah emphasised the difficulty in securing convictions despite numerous arrests. He noted, "The challenge we are having is not the arrest. It is the prosecution." The Ministry is collaborating with the Attorney-General's Department to improve prosecution rates for illegal mining cases.
The government is implementing several measures to curb the menace. Over 4,000 excavators are currently held at Ghana's ports. This action is part of a new documentation and clearance regime designed to control equipment used in illegal mining. Reforms to the mining licensing system are also under consideration. These reforms aim to reduce the maximum initial duration of large-scale mining leases from 30 years to 20 years. Stricter requirements for exploration and prospecting licence holders will ensure actual work on concessions. The Ministry also plans to strengthen community participation in decisions regarding mining concessions. This multi-pronged approach seeks to address the issue from various angles, including enforcement, policy, and community engagement. The recruitment of 2,000 Blue Water Guards further supports intelligence gathering and protection of water bodies. These measures will be closely watched by environmental groups, local communities, and international partners concerned about Ghana's natural heritage and sustainable development goals.